Game call apparatus for attracting animals to an area

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area includes a housing, recordable memory media contained within the housing for storing a pre-recorded ultrasonic sound and a prerecorded audible sound. An audible sound emitter contained within the housing is also provided for emitting the prerecorded audible sound. Further, an ultrasonic sound emitter contained within the housing for emitting the prerecorded ultrasonic sound and second pre-recorded sounds that simulate first and second distinct sounds each made by a species of animal in the environment. A user interface, such as a hand held unit, is also provided to play back the audible and ultrasonic sounds simultaneously to produce a blended sound for attracting an animal. The apparatus may further include a first amplifier for amplifying the audible sound and a second amplifier for amplifying the ultrasonic sound. A low pass filter for filtering the audible sounds and a high pass filter for filtering the ultrasonic sounds from a mono file may also be included. The ultrasonic sound simulates ultrasonic vocal sounds of animals and the audible pre-recorded sound simulates audible vocal sounds of animals.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The embodiments of the present invention generally relate to anelectronic animal call apparatus used to attract a target animal. Theapparatus emits sounds with frequencies in the audible range, as well assounds with frequencies in the ultrasonic range.

BRIEF SUMMARY

An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area includes a housingwhich contains within the housing recordable memory media for storingprerecorded animal sound data files and various control data, userpreferences and playlists of user programmable sequences of animalsounds. The animal sound files may contain audible sound data orultrasonic sound data or a combination of both. A speaker, or otheraudible sound emitter, is also provided for emitting audible rangesounds. Further, an ultrasonic sound emitter contained within thehousing is provided for emitting ultrasonic range sounds. A userinterface, such as a hand-held remote control, is provided such that theuser can select specific sounds and activate the sound reproductionfunction to play back both the audible and ultrasonic soundssimultaneously to produce a blended sound for attracting the targetanimal. The apparatus may further include first an amplifier circuit foramplifying the audible sounds through the speaker, and a secondamplifier circuit for amplifying the ultrasonic sounds through theultrasonic sound emitter. Further, first a filter circuit may beprovided prior to the audible amplifying circuit for improved audiblequality, and a second filter circuit may be provided prior to theultrasonic amplifying circuit for improved sound quality. The audibleand ultrasonic sound data may contain pre-recorded or simulated soundsof several types including vocalized sounds originated by the targetspecies or prey of the target species, sounds created by physical actionof the target species or prey of the target species, such a rubbing ofantlers against a tree, rodent claws running across leaves or ice, orenvironmental sounds, such as the sound of leaves rustling or water in astream. In particular, the sound data may include sounds of distressed,lost, feeding, and/or mating animals.

An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area or animal callapparatus includes a housing, recordable memory media contained withinthe housing for storing a pre-recorded ultrasonic sound and aprerecorded audible sound. An audible speaker contained within thehousing is also provided for emitting the prerecorded audible sound.Further, an ultrasonic sound emitter contained within the housing foremitting the prerecorded ultrasonic sound and second pre-recorded soundsthat simulate first and second distinct sounds each made by a species ofanimal in the environment. A user interface, such as a hand-held unit,is also provided to play back the audible and ultrasonic soundssimultaneously to produce a blended sound for attracting an animal. Theapparatus may further include a first amplifier for amplifying theaudible sound and a second amplifier for amplifying the ultrasonicsound. A low pass filter for filtering the audible sounds and a highpass filter for filtering the ultrasonic sounds from a mono file mayalso be included. The ultrasonic sound simulates ultrasonic vocal soundsof animals and the audible pre-recorded sound simulates audible vocalsounds of animals.

In one embodiment, the apparatus may contain rechargeable batteries orprimary non-rechargeable batteries such as alkaline cells or both forproviding power to the apparatus. In the case of both type batteries areinstalled, the user can select which battery type to provide power, andupon depletion, the other battery type is then available for a backuppower source. Battery status monitor may also be included as a uniqueflashing pattern on an LED display located on the apparatus housing andin some embodiments, status is transmitted by the microcontroller via awireless communication link to a remote user interface.

A method of generating an animal sound to attract a game animal to anarea is also provided. The method includes (A) providing an animal soundto produce a single channel sound file; (B) converting the singlechannel sound file to an analog audio signal using a digital to analogconverter; and (C) simultaneously emitting the audible sounds from anaudible sound emitter and the ultrasonic sounds from an ultrasonic soundemitter to produce a blended animal sound. The method may include a stepof filtering the analog audio signal with a high pass filter and a lowpass filter to separate the audible and ultrasonic sounds, wherein onlyaudible sounds are received from the low pass filter and emitted by thespeaker and the ultrasonic sounds are received from the high pass filterand emitted by the ultrasonic sound emitter.

In another embodiment, both audible and ultrasonic sounds are emittedfrom both the speaker and ultrasonic sound emitter, which act to filterthe sounds. The animal sound may be provided by recording an animalsound with a microphone capable of recording ultrasonic audio or may beprovided from separate pre-recorded audible and ultrasonic sound filesthat are combined to produce the single channel sound file. Generally,the ultrasonic sound emitter transmits sounds at 20,000 hertz frequencyand above and the audible speaker transmits sounds at 20,000 hertz,frequency and below. The specific ranges of the emitted sounds from theultrasonic sound emitter and audible speaker may be adjustable. In oneembodiment, the ultrasonic sounds are emitted at a frequency of between40,000 and 30,000 Hertz and the audible sounds are emitted a frequencyof 15,000 Hertz or less. In addition, in some embodiments, the singlechannel sound file may be a .WAV file and a microprocessor is configuredto read playback specific information for determining how to play backthe sounds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an animal call apparatus enclosed within a housing andtote.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of a speaker box used with an animal callapparatus.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional vied of a speaker box used with an animalcall apparatus.

FIG. 4A shows a front view of a user interface of the animal callapparatus.

FIG. 4B is an exploded view of the user interface of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram exemplifying a first embodiment of a record andplay back method, which may be used with the current game callapparatus.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram exemplifying a second embodiment of a recordand play back method which may be used with a game call apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram exemplifying a third embodiment of a record andplay back method, which may be used with a game call apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram exemplifying a fourth embodiment of a recordand play back method, which may be used with a game call apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram exemplifying a fifth embodiment of a record andplay back method, which may be used with a game call apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram of an automatic voltage source controller,which may be used with a game call apparatus.

FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of a circuit used in the electronic gamecall apparatus including a wireless radio interface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, an animal call apparatus functions to gain the attention ofan intended target animal from a distance, attract the target animalnear to a user's area, draw the target animal into an open area withinrange of the hunter, as well as to entice the target to focus on thedecoy rather than the hunter, thereby decreasing typical defensivebehavior such as bolting or otherwise leaving the area where a hunter islocated. These functions are best accomplished by closely reproducingthe sounds of an animal that will attract a target animal such as soundsof its prey, other animals of the same species, or the like.

Almost all desired target animals have hearing capabilities abovehumans. For example, wild felines, canines, and cervidae (deer, elk)have high frequency hearing capability of 30,000 Hertz and above. Theseanimals can sense ultrasonic sounds, which aids in detecting thepresence of rodents and birds in order to hunt same for food. Incontrast, though humans are reported to hear up to about 20,000 hertzbut with reduced sensitivity above 8000 hertz and a dramatic drop insensitivity in sound above 15,000 hertz. Hearing range in humans variesfrom person to person and decreases with age and exposure to loudsounds.

There are three basic sources of ultrasonic animal sounds: (1) thoughanimals typically lack vocal chords, they are capable of generatingultrasonic sounds by pushing air through their windpipe, thus creating awhistle or flute effect; (2) rodents generate ultrasonic sounds in orderto communicate with each other, mating, feeding, lost or particularlywhen hurt or under distress; (3) though birds cannot hear the highfrequencies themselves, birds nonetheless have ultrasound components intheir tweets and chirps, particularly when in distress. The sounds ofdistress can be enticing to a predator as it sees distressed prey as aneasy catch. In addition, the clawing and gnawing actions of rodentsgenerate ultrasonic sounds that are detectable by predators. Even when arodent is not vocalizing, predators can hear the ultrasonic soundsgenerated in this manner and locate the prey even when hidden under snowand leaves.

Ultrasonic sounds are more easily deflected and reflected by ordinarymoisture in the air. Similarly, ultrasonic waves are more likely toreflect off rocks and trees. The net effect is that ultrasoniccomponents of an animal sound is less directionally-focused and acts tofill a wide area. Such transmission properties of ultrasonic sounds maythus alert target predators that a desired prey is in close proximity,making it easier for a hunter to acquire the target predators.

Even when animals are vocalizing in what appears to be the audiblerange, ultrasonic harmonics (as when two frequencies combine to form athird frequency) may be created via a flute-like effect within theanimal's windpipe. Because ultrasound tends to blanket a wide area, theultrasound can alert a predator to the presence of prey (such as, forexample, a rodent), even when the rodent's squeak is directed away fromthe predator. This is also how larger animals such as deer generatesounds in their windpipes with ultrasound components, in order to callor communicate with others in a herd.

Therefore, providing an apparatus with the ability to generateultrasonic sounds can maximize the authenticity of such sounds, makinghunting target animals more efficient. With that said, generatingultrasonic sounds using currently available acoustic technology isneither easy nor obvious, because the vast majority of sound recordingand playing equipment is designed for frequencies within the humanhearing range, and in fact the equipment is specifically designed toeliminate ultrasonic sounds in the recording and play back processes.

The electronic game call apparatus functions to attract an animal closerto a hunter. This function operates at long distances sometimes a mileor more, to gain the attention of the target and draw the target closeto the hunter. Typically, the sounds mimic three sound types: food(prey), a potential mate or territory protection. In particular, thesemay be sounds the prey typically makes including: sounds of a distressedor hurt prey (indicating to the target an easy meal); sounds generatedby the environment when the prey moves (for example, sounds of gnawing,or claws on ice or leaves); sounds the prey purposely makes whenattempting to attract a mate or indicate the presence of food or otherwarnings. Further, sounds that replicate the sound of female targetanimals that indicate “in season”, distress, or lost from the herd, thatattract male targets to the area to investigate the potential for amating event. Territory protection sounds are replicated of a maletarget animal, that attracts a dominant male target to the area toprotect its territory or harem from an outside male. Some of the soundsreplicate the sounds made by activities associated with males markingtheir territory, such as scraping, or sounds of two males conductingbattles, as in antlers clashing, both inciting a target male to approachthe area to protect his territory.

The electronic game call apparatus may also function to draw a targetanimal into an open area. By placing the animal call apparatus in theopen, the target animal is drawn out into a field or other open areaallowing a clear shot by the hunter, where otherwise, the target animalwould remain hidden in brush or trees. Further, the apparatus may causea target animal to focus on a sound. Here, the sounds generated by thecall cause the target animal to focus on the source of the sound,thereby diverting the attention of the target animal away from thesounds and smells of the hunter.

The electronic game call simulates more closely what the target animalis actually expecting to hear; that is, a more realistic soundreproduction. This enhanced sound production includes sounds generatedby potential prey that humans cannot hear. For example, the smallwindpipe of rodents is used like an ultrasonic dog whistle, when rodentscommunicate among each other. The throat and beak of birds generateultrasonic frequency sounds when under stress despite the fact theycannot themselves hear the high-pitched sounds. The sounds of the clawsof rodents across leaves, snow and ice generate high frequency sounds.In addition, distressed and hurt birds, rabbits, and rodents generatesignificant ultrasonic sounds in their “voiced distress calls”, whichtarget animals use in locating the prey. In particular, the sounds mayinclude sounds of distressed, lost, feeding, and/or mating animals.

High frequency sounds above the normal hearing range of humans, butwhich are audible by target animals, are used by target animals foridentification of prey and for locating that prey according to the phaseand time shift in the sound wave. These phase and time shifts areperceived by the left and right ears of the target animal, therebyproviding information as to the sound's direction as well as thedistance/location of its source.

In general, the electronic game call apparatus includes aMicro-processor/Digital Signal Processor with a circuit element fordecoding the digital computer file of the sound into a format that canbe converted into an analog signal. A Digital to Analog Converter isalso included for converting the decoded digital information into ananalog signal that ultimately can be heard by the target animal.Further, filter circuitry or software that limits the range of theoutput analog signal to match the performance capability of theassociated amplifier and speaker is also provided. It may be low pass,which reduces or eliminates frequencies below a desired frequency, orhigh pass, which reduces or eliminated frequencies below a desiredfrequency, or a combination of both, or no filters are used. A memorycomponent, i.e. recordable memory media, is provided for storing theprerecorded sounds as a computer like file that is decoded. Further, anamplifier component and circuitry that converts a low-level signal isprovided increase the power of low level audio signal to be compatiblewith the audio output devices (speaker and ultrasonic sound emitter).The signal is then transferred to a speaker or sound emitter forconverting the sound's electrical signal to sound pressure waves thatcan be heard. Batteries or other electrical power sources are alsoprovided. Controls including buttons and/or radio transmitter/receiverare provided for consumer use to command the apparatus as to what soundsto play, the duration and volume thereof, and/or other commands asincluded such as enabling the auxiliary decoy output, lighting, powersource selection, etc. Sound files such as digital files containing theinformation and data for the prerecorded sound may comprise traditionalfile structures, such as .WAV. .MP3, or PCM, or may be stored by apropitiatory method. It should be understood by one skilled in the artthat the type of file structured disclosed herein are not intended to belimiting, as additional file types may be used. Further, codes and/orinstructions that may be embedded in the sound file data or headerinformation to direct the microprocessor/digital signal processor how todecode the specific sound file are provided.

FIG. 1 shows electronic game call apparatus 5 with an audible speakercovered by speaker grill 18 and an ultrasonic sound emitter, such as anannunciator 25. The ultrasonic sound emitter may also be a piezoelectricspeaker or other device capable of emitting ultrasonic sounds.Electronic game call apparatus 5 includes a housing 12 having anexterior made of a durable material, such as molded plastic. Housing 12fits within a tote bag 14. Tote bag 14 comprises straps to facilitatetransport of the speaker. In addition, the camouflaged fabric of totebag 14 blends in with outdoor environments such as wooded areas, fields,and the like.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the elements that make up game callapparatus 5 disclosed herein. Housing 12 includes a first side 12 a, asecond side 12 b, a front face plate 12 c, a back panel 12 d, a top side12 e, and a bottom side 12 f. First and second sides 12 a and 12 b eachinclude a pair of molded exterior grooves 11 a and corresponding ribs 11b, which act to strengthen housing 12. Front face plate 12 c is fastenedto housing 12 via a first fastening means 15, which may comprise screws,bolts, pins, dowels, or any other common fastening means known in theart. Front face plate 12 c comprises a first opening 21 and a secondopening 24. A speaker grill 18 positioned over first opening 21 providesprotection to an audible speaker 22 that is positioned on an interiorside of front face plate 12 c so as to coincide with first opening 21.Speaker grill 18 is fastened to housing 12 via a second fastening means19, which also may comprise screws, bolts, pins, dowels, or any othercommon fastening means known in the art. An ultrasonic annunciator 25 isalso positioned on an interior side of front face plate 12 c to coincidewith second opening 24. A 3.5 mm jack 27 is located on front face plate12 c to allow connection to and control of other apparatuses, such as amechanized decoy. In addition, game call apparatus 5 contains a printedcircuit board 30, a rocker switch 33, and an LED indicator light 39. Aback panel 12 d of housing 12 comprises a USB connector 42. Back panel12 d also includes rechargeable battery door 45 and a non-rechargeablebattery door 47. Both doors are fastened to back panel 12 d via aplurality of knob screws 48. Rechargeable battery door 45 allows accessto a rechargeable battery pack (not shown). Similarly, non-rechargeablebattery door 47 allows access to a set of conventional batteries (notshown).

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of game call apparatus 5 is shownincluding first opening 21, adjacent speaker 22 and second opening 24,adjacent ultrasonic annunciator 25. Also shown are rechargeable batterybox 45 a and non-rechargeable battery box 47 a. Ultrasonic annunciator25 includes an annunciator horn 25 a. The curvature of annunciator horn25 a may vary in order to optimize sound emanating from ultrasonicannunciator 25.

FIG. 4A shows a front view of a user interface. In the embodiment shown,the user interface is a remote control 50, which may be used with theanimal call apparatus disclosed herein. In other embodiments, the userinterface may be incorporated within game call apparatus housing 12 andmay include an on/off button, a multi button control, or other controlbuttons, switches or actuators. In some embodiments, the user interfacemay be a smart phone or tablet. Remote control 50 includes a housing 53comprising a housing front face 53 a and a housing back. Front face 53 aalso includes a display 80. Display 80 is electrically connected to adisplay light button 71 located on the side of housing 53. Housing 53also comprises an RF antenna with cover 75, an on/off button 59, and amulti-button control pad 56. Remote control 50 measures about 2 to about5 inches in width. In addition, display 80 measures about 2 to 5 inchesin height and about 2 to 4 inches in width.

FIG. 4B shows an exploded view of the remote control 50 of FIG. 4A. Abutton pad 56 is positioned behind housing front face 53 a. A housingback 53 b includes a battery door 65 covering a battery box 66, as wellas an antenna cover 75. Also contained within the housing are firstcontroller printed circuit board 74, and second control pad circuithoard 76. RF antenna 77 and microprocessor are attached to controllerprinted circuit board 74. A clip 83 is also shown for attachment tohousing back 53 b.

The following describes multiple methods of recording, storing, andplaying back audible and ultrasonic sounds, which may be utilized withthe current game call apparatus. The primary source for ultrasonicsounds is recordings made with a microphone capable of recordingultrasonic audio. Most microphones record only in the audible range.Thus, recording ultrasonic sounds requires an ultrasonic capablemicrophone.

After recording the sounds, the sounds are digitized at sample rates atleast twice the desired frequency (called the Nyquist rate) to avoiddistortion (also called aliasing). Required sample rates typically rangefrom about 50,000 samples per second (or more) for frequencies above thehighest range of human hearing (approximately 20,000 Hertz). Somerecording equipment can record at about 198,000 samples per second.However, equipment that records at lower sampling rates may also beused. Common sample rates may range from about 50,000 to 150,0000samples per second. More specifically, common sample rates are about64,000 and 88,200 (twice that used for standard audio compact disc),96,000 and 128,200 samples per second.

Subsequently, the digitized sounds are stored on appropriate storagemedia. The sounds can be stored in any one of various standard formats,including MP3 and .WAV files. The .WAV sound file structure includesinformation in the header of the file (i.e., metadata). This area isused to note information that identifies the recording such as type oftarget animal sound, date of recording, or other pertinent informationabout the file. It can also be used to save playback specificinformation that can read by the microcontroller for determining whatmethod or methods may be used in the sound recreation process.

In an alternative embodiment, creating animal sound recordings withultrasonic components may be accomplished by using previously-recordedanimal sounds that are not recorded with equipment capable of the highersampling rates discussed above. These previously-recorded sound filesmay be supplemented to include ultrasonic sound elements by addingpreviously-recorded ultrasonic animal sounds (recorded at the highersampling rates), and manually adding this ultrasonic component to theoriginal animal sound files. This process entails use of sound editingsoftware tools. Sound files may be updated using a USB connection and/ora wireless connection to a computer, tablet or smart phone.

This embodiment requires analyzing the original sound files to revealpossible areas in the original audible-only animal sound file wheremixing in ultrasonic components will enhance the original recording. Forexample, frequency peaks indicative of a screeching sound, which wouldnormally have ultrasonic frequency components in a full range recording,represents such an area. Since there is an abundance of existing audiblerange animal sound recordings, using this method of adding ultrasonicenhancements to existing sound files provides a means of obtaining alibrary of full range animal sounds without having to re-record theanimal sounds.

In addition, optimization of sound may be achieved by utilizing theinherent properties of speakers. That is, a first embodiment of theanimal call apparatus disclosed herein may include a single speaker.This embodiment may comprise a single wide-range speaker, or anannunciator. This embodiment also utilizes a single amplifier. When asingle wide-range speaker and amplifier is used, the apparatus iscapable of reproducing sounds in the human audible and ultrasonic range.The computer sound file used in this embodiment may be stored and playedas a single channel. In addition, a stereo sound file may also beutilized. In particular, the file may be decoded such that thetwo-channel stereo file is converted into a single mono output.Alternatively, only one channel of the stereo channel file may be playedthrough the single speaker or annunciator.

A second embodiment disclosed herein comprises a two-speaker system. Inthis embodiment, one speaker may have a playable range centered in thehuman audible range and a second speaker or annunciator may have ahigher frequency range allowing the playing of ultrasonic audio. Inaddition, the sound file could be a mono single channel file, where thesame audio output is directed to the two different speakers, and therelative frequency response characteristics of the two differentspeakers permit ultrasonic sounds to emanate from the highfrequency-capable speaker/annunciator. In addition, these twoembodiments above may utilize filters. In particular, these filters,which limit the frequencies going to each speaker to thereby minimizedistortion, may comprise either software or external circuitry.

Alternately, a specially-prepared two-channel sound file may have highfrequencies directed to the ultrasonic-capable speaker/annunciator andmay have audible range frequencies directed to the audible capablespeaker/annunciator. Thus, a stereo two-channel sound file may have onechannel directed to an ultrasonic speaker, and the second channeldirected to an audible-capable speaker. This method may also includefilters as discussed above.

The two speakers may be located on the same side of the housing so thattheir sound outputs could be additive, thus achieving a higher totalsound level. Alternatively, the two speakers may be located on differentsides of the housing, allowing for a total lower sound volume level, butalso a more three-dimensional sound output.

A third embodiment utilizes more than two speakers. In particular, athird speaker (or more) may be added to enhance frequency range, or foran enhanced volume output, or to produce a less directional soundoutput. For example, a three speaker version may include a third speakerhaving low frequency range, such that the low frequency portions of thesound file are directed to that speaker. This embodiment is comparableto consumer audio apparatuses that have a bass, audible and tweeterspeaker outputs.

Thus, there is more than one method for recording, sampling, storing,and playing back animal sounds having both audible and ultrasonicfrequency components suitable for use with an animal sound decoyapparatus. FIGS. 5-9 , which follow, describe several different methodsof recording, storing, processing, and playing animal sound files withultrasonic frequency components.

FIG. 5 , for example, illustrates a first embodiment having a highsample rate, single digital channel, with low and high pass filters fortwo-channel audio output. A single mono file is created using audioprocessing computer software tools (e.g. Sound Forge and Audacity). Suchaudio processing software allows editing of the sound source files,management of file size, elimination of extraneous sounds (such as“clicks”), normalization of volume levels, filtering of undesiredfrequencies, as well as adjusting volume levels to correlate withfrequency response capabilities of audio output apparatuses such asspeakers. The resulting file is a single channel (mono) sound filesuitable for playing from a full-range animal sound decoy apparatus.

Alternatively, resampling at a lower rate (but still above twice thedesired maximum ultrasonic frequency) may be carried out to reducememory requirements. In particular, as most of the desired ultrasonicsound is at a frequency of 40,000 Hertz or less, sample rates of 80,000samples per second or above may be used. In one example, a re-samplingrate of 64,000 samples per second may be used for a sound filecontaining no significant energy above 30,000 Hertz. As mentioned above,common sampling rates range from 88,200, 96,000, and 128,000 samples persecond. Thus, if a particular ultrasonic source file has little or nosound energy at higher frequency ranges, a lower sample rate may be usedto further reduce memory requirements.

The mono single channel digital file is next converted to an analogaudio signal using a digital to analog converter. Such an apparatus maycomprise a programmed microcontroller or a stand-alone integratedcircuit capable of generating high frequency ultrasonic audio. Thismono-channel audio signal is subsequently exposed to two filters; a highpass filter that permits only frequencies above a predeterminedfrequency to pass through the filter, and a low pass filter that permitsonly frequencies below a predetermined frequency to pass through thefilter. In particular, the high pass filter may be used to strip off thehuman audio range frequencies from the mono full frequency range audiosignal, leaving only the ultrasonic portion. The resulting audio is thenpassed onto an audio amplifier circuit to raise and control the volumebefore it is transmitted through an ultrasonic annunciator or otherultrasonic sound emitter.

As discussed above, a low pass titer only allows sounds below apredetermined frequency to pass through the filter. This circuit may beutilized to strip off the ultrasonic components in the audio signal suchthat only human-audible sound is passed onto the audio amplifier circuitthat drives the standard cone speaker. The frequency used as the cutofffrequency in both the low pass and high pass filter are set depending onthe specific characteristics of the cone speaker and the ultrasonicannunciator. Thus, a cutoff frequency may be in the 15,000 to 20,000Hertz range, depending on the characteristics of the speaker andannunciator. In addition, the cutoff frequency may be, but is notrequired to be, the same for both filters. The cutoff frequency is setto optimize sound by minimizing any distortion caused by having twodifferent apparatuses (speaker and annunciator) playing the same audiosignal at the same time.

Also, with respect to FIG. 5 , though the filters are shown as separateapparatuses, frequency filtering functions could be carried out by useof software associated with a programmable microcontroller or aprogrammable digital signal processor integrated circuit. The volumeoutput levels of the two different amplifier circuits may be controlledby the microprocessor per commands and programs residing in themicroprocessor.

In FIG. 6 , a second embodiment and method of recording, sampling, andplaying sound is described. The second embodiment is characterized by ahigh sample rate and a frequency-separated stereo digital file fortwo-channel output. In this case, an original audio source consisting ofboth human audible and ultrasonic sound may be separated at the soundediting stage, creating a stereo two-channel sound file. One channel(for example, the “left” channel in a typical stereo file) may containthe human audible sound. A second channel (the “right” channel) maycontain predominantly ultrasonic frequency components. This method issimilar to the first method described above, but the filtering is doneat the editing stage, prior to the digital to analog conversion. Also,in this method, the analog output of the analog to digital converter isa stereo signal. That is, one side of the signal is audible, and asecond side of the signal is ultrasonic. Each signal is routed throughan associated audio amplifier circuit followed by a playing apparatus(an audible sound emitter for the audible channel, and an ultrasonicsound emitter for the high frequencies channel). The filtering andvolume levels are set in the editing process to maximize quality of theresulting sound.

In FIG. 7 , a third embodiment associated with a method of recording,sampling, and playing sound is described. The third embodiment utilizesone high sample rate file containing ultrasonic data and a second lowersampling rate sound file containing audible data, played simultaneouslyfor two-channel audio. This embodiment is similar to the secondembodiment, but instead of using a single two channel sound file, thesound source is separated into two separate mono digital sound files;one being the ultrasonic portion saved at a high sample rate and thesecond being the audible portion saved at a lower sampling rate. In thisway, the size of the audible portion will be substantially smallerresulting in lower total required memory to save and play this specificanimal sound. In Method 3, the digital to analog conversion of bothfiles occurs simultaneously, but at different rates, resulting in acoordinated analog output to the respective audio amplifiers and soundoutput apparatus.

FIG. 8 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a method of recording,sampling, and playing sound. In particular, the fourth embodiment uses asingle track audio played through both high frequency and low frequencyoutput apparatus. That is, the fourth embodiment utilizes one highsample rate mono digital file containing the full frequency range audiodata played with either a single channel output from the analog todigital converter split and connected to both audio amplifier inputs,or, the digital to analog converter output is two-channel, with eachchannel connected to either an ultrasonic sound emitter amplifier, or toan audible auditory amplifier.

This embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment above.However, no active external filter circuit is used. Instead, this methoduses the fact that the cone speaker is inefficient at reproducing theultrasonic sounds and the ultrasonic annunciator is limited in itscapability of reproducing audible frequencies. Thus, by playing the samefull frequency audio through both the speaker and the annunciator, thelimited frequency characteristics of these output apparatus creates aself-filtering function. Regarding this embodiment, there is a costsavings in eliminating the external filter circuitry, but the risk ofadditional distortion and higher noise level as compared to includingone or more external filtering apparatuses, is also a possibility.However, this distortion may nonetheless be tolerable and an acceptabletradeoff between reduced sound quality, versus lower cost.

FIG. 9 illustrates a fifth embodiment and method of recording, sampling,and playing sound. The fifth embodiment uses a single track audio playedthrough a single output apparatus having wide frequency capabilities. Inparticular, FIG. 9 shows one high sample rate mono digital filecontaining the full frequency range audio data played with a singlechannel output from the analog to digital converter to a single audioamplifier input connected to a single wide frequency range speaker.

Example 1

Sounds may be recorded digitally and stored as .wav files. Theserecordings are then transferred to an original recording file and thento computer where the sound processing will occur. The processingprocedure is as follows:

-   -   (1) Open the recorded sound file in the sound processing        program.    -   (2) Display the waveform of the file on the screen.

In most cases, the sound file is “rough cut” if it is recorded usinglive animal sounds. That means it contains a continuous recording ofwhich might include clicks, pops, dead space, as well as people talking,etc.

-   -   (3) Make a visual inspection of the waveform, looking for areas        with most probable best animal sounds.    -   (4) Move and listen to the identified areas.    -   (5) If the section contains usable sounds, copy and paste into a        new file. Do this for multiple sections until an adequate amount        of high quality sections are saved as separate files.

It is possible that multiple calls will be made from one originalrecording. For example, a distressed rodent may be on the same originalrecording.

-   -   (6) Select the best candidates from the saved files for making        the final sound files.    -   (7) Arrange, in a temporary file, the saved segments in the        order desired to get the best final product. The final product        may take small pieces of the original recorded files and then        recombine in different ways, such as re-ordering the original        sequence, repeating certain sections, controlling the pacing by        adding silence, or stretching the sound. This process may even        involve taking sounds from other recordings and adding to the        temporary file.        Generally, the final call length is 10 to 30 seconds. Thus, the        pieces of sound must next be assembled together to fit within        this time range.    -   (8) Listen again to each candidate segment.    -   (9) Edit to eliminate pops and sound imperfections and cut the        files to eliminate any extra sounds.    -   (10) Run through a noise filter to remove any hiss that might be        original recording. (Different segments may require different        configurations of a noise filter).    -   (11) Match the volume levels across all the segments, so the        highest volume is consistent. This is done by raising or        lowering the volume over a large segment or editing small        portions. When cutting and pasting sound segments together to        insure a smooth transition. This can be done by fading in and        out or mixing at the area of the transition from one segment to        the next.    -   (12) Listen for any bad artifacts from the editing process and        manually fix those.    -   (13) Then, raise the combination that has been made so it barely        reaches the maximum volume to insure the loudest play possible.        Fix any area where clipping (going over the maximum volume)        occurs.

In some cases, the lowest volume section may require additionalamplitude so that these sounds can be heard relative to the loudestsounds.

-   -   (14) Next, the frequency response of the input apparatuses is        reviewed (e.g., the microphone, recording equipment, etc.), as        well as the output apparatuses (e.g., the amplifier, speaker,        and housing). The file must be modified to compensate and/or        calibrate for the real life frequency/actual response of these        components.

For example, most speakers do not play a flat volume level for allfrequencies. Thus, frequencies where the speaker is highly efficientwill generally be too loud, and conversely, if the speaker hasfrequencies where it is less efficient, it will generally be too low.Using a tool called EQ (equalization), the file can be modified to takeinto consideration the lack of flat frequency response of all the inputand output apparatuses. Selected frequency ranges can be amplified ordecreased, so the final sound output plays the sound as if all elementsof the apparatus have a flat frequency response.

If the case of the ultrasound product that will play two separate filesthrough two different speakers, this step is carried out after the filehas been split into two files, one file for the human audible speaker,and the second file for the ultrasound speaker as each speaker has aunique frequency response. The two files are then also adjusted so theoutput of one speaker is at the same level of the other speaker.

Next, the file is optimized by frequency range. That is, the highfrequency ultrasound file is run through a high pass filter to removethe frequencies below a given cutoff of frequency. Similarly, the filefor the audible speaker is filtered with a low pass filter, sofrequencies below a predetermine cutoff frequency is removed.

It is expected that both files will have some shared frequencies whereboth speakers will play the same sound. In this shared area, the volumeof the shared frequencies is reduced, so when played, the net result isa flat, consistent volume. This shared area reduces the distortion thatoften occurs when trying to play sound files that are cut severely at agiven point.

Editing the ultrasound file has a unique challenge because humans cannothear sounds at ultrasonic frequencies. Thus, in order to edit anultrasonic file, the entire file may be pitched down so it can belistened to by an engineer. For example, a sound at 30,000 hertz wouldneed to be pitched down by at least three times to be audible forediting (that is, the sound would need to be pitched down from 30,000hertz to 10,000 hertz to be heard). Editing for imperfections can thusbe accomplished by using the down-pitched file, and subsequently, thefile is pitched back up to return the file to its original range.

All the editing above is done at the high sample rate of the originalrecording. To play the sound through the actual game call apparatus, theentire file must be resampled at the lower sample rate set by thesoftware of the game call apparatus.

Before resampling, an initial spectral analysis is done on the file.This analysis shows the relative power at the full frequency range andindicates the lowest frequencies that should be removed to preventdistortion after resampling.

Another consideration is the Nyquist frequency. Regarding the Nyquistfrequency, the highest frequency allowed in the file has to be at leasthalf the frequency of the final sample rate to prevent distortion fromaliasing. With respect to the current product, the expected play backrate is 88,200 hertz, meaning all sound above 44,000 hertz must befiltered. The limitation of 44,000 hertz has no negative impact on theeffectiveness of the apparatus as the expected target animals havelittle to no hearing capability above 44,000 hertz.

The file is next run through a “brick wall” high pass/low pass filter todelete all sound outside the desired range, and the file is thenresampled at the play rate. The two resulting files (one for ultrasonicand one for audible sounds), are re-examined visually and by human earsfor any undesired residual effects from this final editing process.Additional editing may be required.

Example 2

In another embodiment, sound files for storing and playing soundscontaining ultrasonic elements may be produced by:

-   -   (1) recording original sounds with high frequency/high sample        rate equipment;    -   (2) editing and mixing in ultrasonic audio data into a sound        file not originally recorded with ultrasonic equipment; and    -   (3) playing two separate sound files simultaneously; one file        containing audible sound data and a second file containing        ultrasonic sound data.

Further, the animal call apparatus disclosed herein may utilize one orboth of primary (non-rechargeable) and/or rechargeable batteries.Primary (non-rechargeable) and rechargeable batteries have differentchemistries. In addition, each battery type has different currentcapabilities as the batteries are depleted.

With respect to one embodiment of the animal call apparatus disclosedherein, it may be adapted to work with only one type of battery (i.e.,primary/non-rechargeable batteries or rechargeable batteries). In thisembodiment, a microprocessor will constantly monitor voltage level ofthe batteries and adjust the maximum volume level of the audio output tokeep the current requirements of the entire system from exceedingpre-determined maximums, so as to avoid damage to the battery cells andto maximize battery life.

In one variant of adjusting volume, only the volume peaks in the audioare reduced. The audio portions below the maximum peaks are notadjusted. According to a second variant of adjusting volume, certainsound frequencies (based on the specifications of the speakers), mayrequire more current than other frequencies. These high currentfrequencies are reduced in amplitude in order to optimize batteryfunctionality.

Some sounds produced by the animal call apparatus disclosed herein areof a type where loudness is key to producing an authentic target animalsound (e.g., a coyote howl). In these cases, the volume level of soundsplayed through the high frequency annunciator are reduced to allow thehigh volume sounds to be played primarily with the audible speaker for anet louder sound when current limits are imposed. Codes in the soundfile can designate “high-volume” sound file.

In another embodiment, the animal call apparatus disclosed herein mayhave capability for both primary and rechargeable batteries to beinstalled at the same time. In particular, the apparatus may have twoseparate battery compartments such that only primary cells will fit intoone of the compartments and only a rechargeable battery pack will fitinto the second compartment. A portion of electronic circuitry islocated between the batteries and the rest of the electronics. Thispower selection circuitry automatically selects which battery type willprovide the electrical power to the main electronics based on which typeof battery is installed and whether the voltage levels of the batteriesexceeds a minimal threshold level. If both battery types are installedand charged, circuitry defaults to a pre-programmed selection. In themajority of scenarios, the apparatus defaults to the rechargeablebatteries, but this choice is arbitrary, and could alternately beprogrammed to default to primary batteries. In either case, the user canchange this default through commands to the microprocessor.

The microprocessor constantly monitors the voltage level of bothbatteries. As the batteries are depleted by use, the voltage and maximumcurrent output of the battery is reduced. At some point, the electricalcurrent capability of a particular battery is diminished. Subsequently,the microprocessor may cause the power selection circuitry to switch tothe other type battery in order to maintain maximum sound volume level.The user is informed of the change and may override the selection and/orcommand which battery source will supply power.

It is possible for example, that the rechargeable batteries wouldinitially be selected to be the power source. As the rechargeablebatteries are depleted, the power selection circuitry switches to theprimary (non-rechargeable) batteries, which in turn are depleted to thepoint that switching back to the rechargeable batteries provides forcontinued use of the apparatus. This switching could continue until bothbatteries are completely depleted. A user also may have the option torefrain from switching battery types until the initial selected batterytype is completely depleted.

A user may also disconnect and replace either of the battery types atany time. The selection circuitry will compensate for the batteryremoval and or replacement.

Automatic Voltage Source Control

FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram of an automatic voltage source controlmechanism included with the disclosed game call apparatus. Inparticular, another feature of the game call apparatus disclosed hereinis the ability to reduce sound volume when using non-rechargeablebatteries. In order to reach the audio levels typically desired byhunters, this requires electrical current that can exceed the currentcapability of standard non-rechargeable alkaline batteries. Drawing toomuch current from alkaline batteries generates considerable heat, posinga danger to the batteries, the apparatus itself, as well as users of theapparatus. Rechargeable batteries comprising nickel metal hydride(NiMH), lithium polymer (LiPo) and lithium ion (Li-ion) have the abilityto operate safely and efficiently at high power levels.

However, rechargeable batteries must be recharged before use and/or whendepleted. In addition, should a hunter forget to recharge therechargeable batteries or deplete the rechargeable batteries by normalusage thereof, recharging the batteries while on a hunting trip may bedifficult. In particular, recharging batteries requires access to anelectricity source, a special battery charger, and may take severalhours. Therefore, the present game call apparatus allows a hunter to useeasy-to-purchase alkaline batteries in those situations where therechargeable batteries are not available, or are non-functional orotherwise cannot be recharged, or are simply depleted.

When operating the animal call apparatus disclosed herein withrechargeable batteries, the full volume level can be played by theanimal call apparatus. When operating with non-rechargeable batteries,the maximum sound volume level is automatically reduced so that thecurrent/power requirements stay within the restraints of safe operationranges of the non-rechargeable batteries. In addition, this maximumvolume level of the game call apparatus is also reduced over time, asthe voltage level and current capability of alkaline batteries dropsfrom normal use depletion.

Regarding the rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries which may beused with the animal call apparatus disclosed herein, both or either ofthese battery types can be installed. Two separate battery compartmentsare provided. Upon apparatus activation, the hardware and softwarecircuitry first determine the voltage level from each compartment. Ifthe battery level from a given compartment is zero, then the apparatussenses no batteries are installed in that compartment. If bothrechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries are installed, the systemwill default to rechargeable. If there are no rechargeable batteriesinstalled or the rechargeable batteries are depleted, the power sourcefor the animal call is switched to non-rechargeable batteries. This isdone with a mix of hardware circuitry and a program residing in theanimal call apparatus's electronics. In addition, the user may also senda command via the remote control to manually select which battery touse. If non-rechargeable batteries are manually selected, the samecurrent limiting as above remains in effect.

The system constantly monitors the voltage levels of the batteries sothat programmed logic can adjust maximum sound levels associated withswitching from one battery type to another. The user is informed of thevolume level limits via the user interface and animal call housingdisplays. In all cases, the microcontroller outputs the battery statusto the user via radio transceiver to the user interface display. Batterystatus may also be displayed on the game call apparatus housing. Forexample, an LED could change color or flash at a different rate as ameans to inform the user of battery status.

FIG. 11 illustrates a circuit diagram of a circuit used in theelectronic game call apparatus including a wireless radio interface anda USB interface to a computer.

While this invention has been described with reference to certainspecific embodiments and examples, it will be recognized by thoseskilled in the art that many variations are possible without departingfrom the scope and spirit of this invention. The invention, as definedby the claims, is intended to cover all changes and modifications of theinvention which do not depart from the spirit of the invention. Thewords “including” and “having,” as used in the specification, includingthe claims, shall have the same meaning as the word “comprising.”

We claim:
 1. An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area, theapparatus comprising: at least one mono signal digital file containingan animal sound obtained by recording an animal sound with a microphonecapable of recording ultrasonic audio, the mono signal digital filecontaining both audible and ultrasonic frequency components; recordablememory media containing said at least one mono signal digital filecontaining audible and ultrasonic frequency components a digital toanalog converter configured to convert the at least one mono signaldigital file to analog audio signals; a first amplifier connected to afirst speaker having a playable range centered in the human audiblerange; a second amplifier connected to a second speaker having afrequency range allowing the playing of ultrasonic audio; a userinterface that, when activated, plays back the mono signal digital filethrough said first amplifier and said first speaker, and said secondamplifier and said second speaker; a processor; and memory accessibleby, or residing in, said processor, said memory storing a program that,when said program is executed by said processor, said processor causessaid first speaker and said second speaker to simultaneously emit saidaudible and ultrasonic frequency components, respectively.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein said processor comprises a component of aprogrammable microcontroller connected to said first amplifier and saidsecond amplifier.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising (a) alow pass filter that filters the animal sound data file and permits onlyfrequencies below a predetermined frequency to pass through the filter,and (b) a high pass filter that filters the animal sound data file andpermits only frequencies above a predetermined frequency to pass throughthe filter.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising rechargeablebatteries for powering the apparatus.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the user interface is a smart phone or tablet.
 6. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein said second speaker is an annunciator or apiezoelectric speaker.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein saidplayable range of said first speaker is centered at 15,000 hertz or lessand said frequency range of said second speaker is centered at 20,000hertz or more.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the animal sounddata file has been equalized to amplify or decrease selected frequencyranges to provide a final sound output having a flat frequency response.9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the animal sound data file is amono single channel file, further wherein said mono single channel fileis provided separately to both said first speaker and to said secondspeaker.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first amplifier isfor amplifying audible sound in the animal sound data file and saidsecond amplifier is for amplifying ultrasonic sound in the animal sounddata file.
 11. An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area, theapparatus comprising: at least one animal sound data file containingaudible and ultrasonic frequency components; recordable memory mediacontaining said at least one animal sound data file containing audibleand ultrasonic frequency components; a first amplifier connected to afirst speaker having a playable range centered in the human audiblerange; a second amplifier connected to a second speaker having afrequency range allowing the playing of ultrasonic audio; a userinterface that, when activated, plays back the animal sound data filethrough said first amplifier and said first speaker, and said secondamplifier and said second speaker; a processor; memory accessible by, orresiding in, said processor, said memory storing a program that, whensaid program is executed by said processor, said processor causes saidfirst speaker and said second speaker to simultaneously emit saidaudible and ultrasonic frequency components, respectively; andrechargeable batteries for powering the apparatus, wherein the apparatusfurther comprises non-rechargeable batteries for powering the apparatus,wherein the apparatus further comprises a power selection circuitryconnected to said processor, said power selection circuitry beingconfigured to automatically switch to the non-rechargeable orrechargeable batteries depending on which will provide the maximum powerbased on current sourcing capability of the non-rechargeable andrechargeable batteries at a given voltage level, and wherein saidapparatus is configured to permit a user to override said powerselection circuitry and manually select whether to use the rechargeableor non-rechargeable batteries.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11, furthercomprising a battery status monitor, and wherein said processorcomprises a portion of a microcontroller that is configured to outputthe battery status via radio transceiver to a remote control.
 13. Anapparatus for attracting an animal to an area, the apparatus comprising:at least one mono signal digital file containing an animal soundobtained by recording an animal sound with a microphone capable ofrecording ultrasonic audio, the mono signal digital file containing bothaudible and ultrasonic frequency components; recordable memory mediacontaining said at least one mono signal digital file containing audibleand ultrasonic frequency components a digital to analog converterconfigured to convert the at least one mono signal digital file toanalog audio signals; an amplifier connected to a speaker having a firstplayable range in the human audible range, said speaker having a secondplayable range allowing the playing of ultrasonic audio; a userinterface that, when activated, plays back the mono signal digital filethrough said speaker; a processor; and memory accessible by, or residingin, said processor, said memory storing a program that, when saidprogram is executed by said processor, said processor causes saidspeaker to simultaneously emit said audible and ultrasonic frequencycomponents.
 14. An apparatus for attracting an animal to an area, theapparatus comprising: at least one mono signal digital file containingan animal sound obtained by recording an animal sound with a microphonecapable of recording ultrasonic audio, the mono signal digital filecontaining both audible and ultrasonic frequency components; recordablememory media for storing said at least one mono signal digital file; adigital to analog converter configured to convert the at least one monosignal digital file to analog audio signals; a first speaker having aplayable range centered in the human audible range, said first speakerconfigured to emit the analog audio signals in an audible range; and asecond speaker having a frequency range allowing the playing ofultrasonic audio, said second speaker configured to emit the analogaudio signals in an ultrasonic range, a processor; and memory accessibleby or residing in said processor, said memory storing a program, whereinwhen said program is executed by said processor, said processor causessaid first speaker and said second speaker to simultaneously emit theaudible and ultrasonic frequency components, respectively, to create ablended sound over both audible and ultrasonic frequency ranges forattracting an animal.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the atleast one mono signal digital file has been equalized to amplify ordecrease selected frequency ranges to provide a final sound outputhaving a flat frequency response.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, furthercomprising (a) a low pass filter that filters the at least one monosignal digital file and permits only frequencies below a predeterminedfrequency to pass through the filter, and (b) a high pass filter thatfilters the at least one mono signal digital file and permits onlyfrequencies above a predetermined frequency to pass through the filter.17. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising rechargeable batteriesfor powering the apparatus.
 18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein saidplayable range of said first speaker is centered at 15,000 hertz or lessand said frequency range of said second speaker is centered at 20,000hertz or more.
 19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said secondspeaker is an annunciator or a piezoelectric speaker.
 20. The apparatusof claim 14, wherein said processor comprises a component of aprogrammable microcontroller connected to said first amplifier and saidsecond amplifier.